Cuts through the confusion surrounding pregnancy and birth by debunking dozens of myths that mislead parents, offering explanations of medical terms, and covering a variety of issues including prenatal care, birth defects, and amniocentesis.

Includes index.

Part 1. First things first. Before you conceive -- Are you pregnant? -- Your pregnancy profile -- Your pregnancy lifestyle -- Nine months of eating well -- Part 2. Nine months & counting. The first month -- The second month -- The third month -- The fourth month -- The fifth month -- The sixth month -- The seventh month -- The eighth month -- The ninth month -- Labor and delivery -- Part 3. Twins, triplets & more. Expecting more than one -- Part 4. After the baby is born. Postpartum: the first week -- Postpartum: the first 6 weeks -- Part 5. For dads. Fathers are expectant, too -- Staying healthy when you're expecting. If you get sick -- If you have a chronic condition -- Part 7. The complicated pregnancy. Managing a complicated pregnancy -- Coping with pregnancy loss.